Recently, the Michigan Gaming Control Board (MGCB) ordered six unlicensed sweepstakes casino operators to stop their services in the state. These operators broke rules set by the Michigan Lawful Internet Gaming Act and the Michigan Gaming Control and Revenue Act. They also violated parts of the Michigan Penal Code.
The MGCB oversees all gaming in Michigan and works to keep it fair and legal. The unlicensed operators offered online casino games without proper approval, which led to the cease-and-desist orders. This action reinforced Michigan’s stance on regulating online gaming to protect players and ensure only licensed companies operate.
The six operators ran online sweepstakes casinos without a Michigan license. Their names were not shared in the MGCB’s official statement. These platforms let Michigan residents play casino-style games, which is against the law if the operator isn’t licensed.
Unlicensed sites are considered to be especially risky for players. For example, they may not follow rules for fair games or protect personal information compared to their legal counterparts.
The MGCB said these operators ignored the state’s strict gaming laws, which are in place to keep players safe and ensure honest practices. By shutting them down, the MGCB aims to stop illegal gambling and maintain trust in the state’s gaming system.
The MGCB has a strong track record of stopping unlicensed gaming. Earlier in 2025, it targeted offshore platforms like BetUS, Sportsbetting.ag, and BetOnline.ag with similar orders. Sites can be quickly struck down through geofencing technology that reads where users are trying to access the operator from.
Users within Michigan territory are now unable to use these sites.
Henry Williams, the MGCB’s executive director, said the agency and local police help keep a close watch on gaming activities to catch illegal operators. The recent orders against the six sweepstakes casinos are part of a larger effort to keep Michigan’s gaming market safe and regulated.
Michigan has a thriving legal online casino market, regulated by the MGCB. As of 2025, 15 licensed online casinos operate in the state, including well-known names like BetMGM, DraftKings, and FanDuel. These platforms offer games like slots, poker, and blackjack, all under strict oversight to ensure fairness and security.
In 2024, Michigan’s internet gaming industry, including online casinos, generated $2.7 billion in revenue, according to the MGCB’s annual report. Over $500 million in tax revenue supported state programs, such as education and infrastructure, through taxes.
Licensed casinos also provide responsible gaming tools, like deposit limits and self-exclusion options, to help players stay in control. Such tools are implemented to promote healthy gaming habits at recognized sites.
The MGCB urges players to stick to licensed gaming sites. The state’s proactive measures to remove threats build trust in the gaming industry that every transaction is legitimate and winnings will be paid out. Michigan’s rules and willingness to partner with some of the most recognizable brands in the United States have helped make it a leader in safe, regulated online gaming.
A full list of approved operators is available at michigan.gov/mgcb.
Players can also find responsible gaming resources, like tools to set spending limits or get help with gambling issues. Anyone affected by the shutdown should contact the MGCB for help or to report problems.
